Unit name | Mathematics and Programming Skills for Social Scientists |
---|---|
Unit code | GEOGM0032 |
Credit points | 15 |
Level of study | M/7 |
Teaching block(s) |
Teaching Block 2 (weeks 13 - 24) |
Unit director | Mr. Hayes |
Open unit status | Not open |
Pre-requisites |
As this is an advanced-level course, working knowledge of the theory and application of regression analysis is assumed; experience of rudimentary programming is preferable. |
Co-requisites |
Other AQM mandatory units |
School/department | School of Geographical Sciences |
Faculty | Faculty of Science |
This is an advanced-level mathematics and programming course which aims to provide students with the essential mathematical skills needed to solve various types of optimisation problems and to introduce them to software with which they can solve practical optimisation problems within research.
The main topics covered are syntax-driven logistic regression in SPSS leading to multi-level modelling theory and application using MLwiN; statistical and graphical techniques using R; dynamic programming and coding using Python; multi-level modelling theory and application using MLwiN. Each day-long session will involve lectures outlining the theory behind a technique or the rudiments of a programming language, its application and use, along with practical sessions implementing the skills learned on a common dataset that will be used for each of the three day-long sessions and with each of the different computing packages.
Upon successful completion of this unit, students will have:
This course is delivered in sections by each institution (Bath, Bristol and Exeter)
One 2000-word research project using the skills/techniques developed in one of the programming languages/applications to investigate a research problem relevant to the student's chosen discipline. This will assess all learning outcomes. (Exact word limit is dependent on the insitution delivering the assessment.)
To be advised by tutor if applicable.